Since I completed the study (see previous post) I have been able to study out the composition, find weak spots, locate problem areas, and decide where more information is needed. There is great value in creating a study before you make final commitments. Once I was able to step back and see how this study turned out, I was able to decide which areas needed more work.
Although I enjoy watercolor, oil is still my medium of choice. This painting is going to take a little more planning and preparation than I originally speculated. During this period of time when I can't paint with my oils, I will continue collecting information and developing this idea. If I have any progress worth posting, you will see it here.
On a side note, my family and I will be heading back to the beautiful state of Wisconsin in a couple of days, so this will be my last post for a couple of weeks.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Hosanna: Watercolor Study of Palm Sunday
Hosanna - 9 x 12Watercolor
Copyright of Dena McMurdie 2009
I finally finished my watercolor study of "Hosanna" depicting Christ's triumphant entry into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday. I wanted this to be an impressionistic style painting that would speak of the event, and not linger on details.
It is amazing how the vision in my head changes dramatically from the original idea. I insist on doing all the research I am able to do, and in so doing, I always discover new information and insights that evolve my original design.
Research for this piece included studying the account in the book of Matthew, searching for the direction Christ entered the city (he came from the east, having just left the Mount of Olives), deciding where the light source would be coming from, and reading various articles that included information on the event.
One article I read was called, "Children at Peace" by Michaelene P. Grassli that appeared in the November 1988 issue of the Ensign. She mentions that the multitude that gathered to greet Jesus was an extremely large crowd "probably waiting along the narrow streets of Jerusalem becoming more and more excited as they strained to see if he was coming yet." Once I read that line, the entire image in my mind shifted, changed into a scene of anticipation and welcome. Although the figure of Christ remains the focal point, he was no longer in the foreground. The image became very clear to me, very obvious.
I am constantly amazed at the amount of time and hard work that go into creating an inspirational piece of art. Many hours are spent drawing, sketching, researching, and praying. I truly believe that my Father in Heaven guides the decisions that I make with these paintings. He knows my strengths and weaknesses and through my diligence and sweat, He transforms my weaknesses into strengths
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Monday, August 10, 2009
Purchasing Art at an Auction
With the 14th Annual Richard Schmid Art Auction coming up in less than a month, I thought it would be helpful to have a few pointers on purchasing art at an auction. Recently, I read an article on this very subject and thought that I could share some of the advice that it provided.
There are three types of auctions where art can be purchased. The first is an estate sale where items are being sold from a previous residence. This is a great place to pick up artwork for a good price, since most reasonable offers are taken. The second type of auction is a consignment auction where there are usually reserves (or minimum prices) placed on a piece of artwork. The last type of auction is called a mixed auction where items are being sold in lieu of rent payment. These can also be a great place to find good deals on artwork.
It is important to know what kind of art you are buying. Some artwork is generally more valuable than others. Some paintings depreciate in value, others may hold their value but generally won't increase, and then there are investment pieces which are practically guaranteed to increase in value over time.
I would suggest reading the article to find out more about purchasing artwork at auctions and how to know which pieces will be a smart investment. You can read the full article by clicking on the link below.
http://emptyeasel.com/2007/09/20/how-to-buy-art-at-art-auctions-advice-for-art-collectors-and-art-investors/
There are three types of auctions where art can be purchased. The first is an estate sale where items are being sold from a previous residence. This is a great place to pick up artwork for a good price, since most reasonable offers are taken. The second type of auction is a consignment auction where there are usually reserves (or minimum prices) placed on a piece of artwork. The last type of auction is called a mixed auction where items are being sold in lieu of rent payment. These can also be a great place to find good deals on artwork.
It is important to know what kind of art you are buying. Some artwork is generally more valuable than others. Some paintings depreciate in value, others may hold their value but generally won't increase, and then there are investment pieces which are practically guaranteed to increase in value over time.
I would suggest reading the article to find out more about purchasing artwork at auctions and how to know which pieces will be a smart investment. You can read the full article by clicking on the link below.
http://emptyeasel.com/2007/09/20/how-to-buy-art-at-art-auctions-advice-for-art-collectors-and-art-investors/
Friday, August 7, 2009
Taking My Own Advice
There are some paintings that I have a really hard time completing. It doesn't stem from laziness or lack of inspiration or creativity. Nope - fear is what causes me to procrastinate the hours away and prevents me from completing the work I need to. There are some paintings that are of such a sensitive subject matter that I literally fear working on them. I will find numerous other projects to occupy my time and keep me busy while the one project that constantly sits in the back of my mind sits unfinished.
My last few posts have been about avoiding procrastination. So now it is time for me to take my own advice and stop putting off those projects that have more meaning and the possibility of inviting a spirit of reverence and peace into someone's home.
In case all of this jargon doesn't make any sense. I am talking about the painting "Hosanna" depicting Palm Sunday that I have been working on for the past month. Today I decided that I have painted it enough in my mind and it is time to apply real paint to the paper. Sensitive subjects are always hard for me to paint. My expectations for such works of art are so high, and I do not treat religious subjects lightly. Many hours of prayer and study go into each piece. But with all paintings, there comes a point of "now or never" and I believe that I have reached that point. I am hoping that the rest of my day goes according to plan and that I will have a beautiful painting to post here tomorrow. Please stay tuned to be first to see my newest painting!
My last few posts have been about avoiding procrastination. So now it is time for me to take my own advice and stop putting off those projects that have more meaning and the possibility of inviting a spirit of reverence and peace into someone's home.
In case all of this jargon doesn't make any sense. I am talking about the painting "Hosanna" depicting Palm Sunday that I have been working on for the past month. Today I decided that I have painted it enough in my mind and it is time to apply real paint to the paper. Sensitive subjects are always hard for me to paint. My expectations for such works of art are so high, and I do not treat religious subjects lightly. Many hours of prayer and study go into each piece. But with all paintings, there comes a point of "now or never" and I believe that I have reached that point. I am hoping that the rest of my day goes according to plan and that I will have a beautiful painting to post here tomorrow. Please stay tuned to be first to see my newest painting!
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Avoiding Procrastination
Ablaze - 8 x 10Oil on Canvas Panel
$100
Copyright of Dena McMurdie 2009
My last post was on the power of groups and how it helps with procrastination. Procrastination is something that almost every artist struggles with from time to time. How does an artist deal with and overcome procrastination?
One method that has worked reasonably well for me is to make a "to do" list at the beginning of each day. I find that when I have specific goals for each day written down, I am much more motivated to move down the list and cross things off as I get them done. It also puts my responsibilities for the day into perspective. I feel more motivated and empowered to accomplish the things that I need to that day.
The one drawback to the list idea is that sometimes I get a little too ambitious first thing in the morning and create a list that is impossible to complete. When I only get through the first few items and see the long list of responsibilities left that I didn't get done, I tend to get discouraged. It is important to remember to be realistic and realize that you won't always be able to complete everything you had planned for that day. Make lists that are possible to complete. If you don't get to something, don't sweat it too much, just move it to the next day's list and go from there.
Monday, August 3, 2009
The Power of Groups
Most artists are very solitary creatures. I heard it explained once as this: we hide out in our studios for days or weeks - sometimes even months at a time, only coming out to show off our latest creation to our spouse or friend. After their initial gasp of admiration, we head back into the studio for another extended period of isolation.
Although isolation is an inevitable part of being an artist, we should seek opportunities to be around other creative people. Doing so can improve skills, diminish procrastination, and enhance creativity. Belonging to a group of artists that meet regularly to critique each other's work and provide encouragement and inspiration is greatly beneficial to all parties involved.
The most creative and productive periods of my life were the times when I was involved in some sort of organization that made collaboration with other creative people necessary. Whether it was at my job, at school, or in an independent group, it was always beneficial to me to be part of a group of artists all striving for the same goal.
I would encourage all artists out there to join or start a group that meets on a regular basis to provide feedback, encouragement, and inspiration for each other. Not only will you be more productive and improve your skills, but you may also make some very lasting friendships.
Although isolation is an inevitable part of being an artist, we should seek opportunities to be around other creative people. Doing so can improve skills, diminish procrastination, and enhance creativity. Belonging to a group of artists that meet regularly to critique each other's work and provide encouragement and inspiration is greatly beneficial to all parties involved.
The most creative and productive periods of my life were the times when I was involved in some sort of organization that made collaboration with other creative people necessary. Whether it was at my job, at school, or in an independent group, it was always beneficial to me to be part of a group of artists all striving for the same goal.
I would encourage all artists out there to join or start a group that meets on a regular basis to provide feedback, encouragement, and inspiration for each other. Not only will you be more productive and improve your skills, but you may also make some very lasting friendships.
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